The Evolution of Ethanol: 40 Years of Progress

For over 40 years, IL Corn has championed ethanol policy across the state and nation.

From the oxygenate debates of the 1990s to today’s push for year-round E-15, ethanol has remained central to conversations about corn prices, cleaner fuel, and energy security. As policymakers revisit fuel standards and consumers look for relief at the gas pump, Illinois corn farmers continue to play a vital role in advancing fuel infrastructure that supports both American agriculture and domestic energy independence. 

1988: Ethanol Works

In the late 1980s, IL Corn led a push for the adoption of a 10% blend of ethanol in gasoline (E-10) across fuel stations in the United States. 

In 2026, roughly 98% of gasoline in the U.S. contains ethanol.  In addition, all vehicles 2001+ and older are compatible with E-10 by design, with most 2001+ vehicles safe to use with E-15 as well.

Today, IL Corn has shifted its goals to the roll out of E-15, a blend that contains 5% more ethanol content. In May, the house passed HR 1346, which championed year-round protections for E-15 at the pump. This legislation was supported by all 17 Illinois representatives, demonstrating the state's strong commitment to E-15 legislation. 

17 manufacturers have also built "flex-fuel" vehicles (FFVs) that are compatible with ethanol blends up to 85%. 

1992: Corn to Ethanol Research Pilot Plant

Suggested by the ICGA in 1992, The National Corn to Ethanol Research Center (NCERC) opened its doors at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in 2003. Supported by the 1997 Farm Bill and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, NCERC quickly grew into a hub of innovation.

Today, it leads national renewable fuel research and has become a cornerstone for corn demand, continuing to push boundaries with new advancements in ethanol production.

1994: Protecting Ethanol's Market Share

In the fall of 1994, the U.S. Court of Appeals issued a "stay" blocking the implementation of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Renewable Oxygenate Requirement (ROR). In April 1995, the court permanently struck down the ROR, ruling that while the EPA had the authority to set clean air standards under the 1990 Clean Air Act, it exceeded it by trying to mandate a specific market share (like 30%). 

Refiners quickly began to favor a petroleum-based chemical oxygenate, MTBE, as opposed to corn-based ethanol. However, by the late 1990s MTBE was found to be leaking from underground storage tanks and contaminating public water supplies. As a result, Congress removed the 1990 Clean Air Act's 2% oxygenate requirement. 

Today, the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) serves as an alternative that promotes the use of 15 billion gallons of ethanol and other biofuels.

1998: Ethanol & Corn Prices

In 1998, ethanol production used rough 526 million bushels of corn according to NCGA data. 

This year, an estimated 5.6 billion bushels of corn will be used for ethanol production according to the USDA's WADE Report. That's roughly 1/3 of all corn harvested in the United States. As corn yields steadily increase across Illinois, continued demand for ethanol will be essential for protecting corn prices in years to come.

2002: The American Fuel

In the early-2000s, energy security was at the top of mind for many Americans. 

Today, among ongoing conflicts in the middle east, energy security remains top of mind. With the average gas price in Illinois peaking at almost $5 a gallon for regular and over $6 a gallon for diesel during the Iran conflict, consumers and farmers alike are searching for a solution. 

Time and time again, ethanol has proven that having a reliable home-grown energy alternative benefits Americans in times of conflict. IL corn continues to support E-15 legislation, which would reduce both financial and energy security concerns.

Today, ICGA leaders continue to advocate for ethanol legislation and infrastructure on the state and national level. Most recently, ICGA leaders visited Washington, D.C. to discuss the state of E-15 and the farm economy.

To stay up to date on ethanol news, visit https://www.ilcorn.org/ethanol.